Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A display comprising: a substrate having an active area that includes an array of pixels and an opening within the active area, wherein the opening has first and second opposing sides and is surrounded by a border region; a plurality of gate lines coupled to the array of pixels; a plurality of data lines coupled to the array of pixels, wherein a subset of the plurality of data lines are rerouted within the border region from the first side to the second side and wherein the subset of the plurality of data lines has portions in the border region that are formed from a first metal layer that is formed in a first plane, a second metal layer that is formed in a second plane that is lower than the first plane, and a third metal layer that is formed in a third plane that is lower than the second plane; a first conductive via that electrically connects the third metal layer to a first portion of the second metal layer; and a second conductive via that electrically connects the first metal layer to a second portion of the second metal layer.
Display technology. This invention addresses the challenge of routing data lines in a display with an opening within its active area, such as for a camera or sensor. The display includes a substrate with an active area containing an array of pixels. Crucially, there is an opening within this active area, defined by first and second opposing sides and surrounded by a border region. Multiple gate lines and data lines are connected to the pixels. A specific subset of these data lines are rerouted within the border region, traversing from the first side of the opening to the second side. These rerouted data lines are constructed using a multi-layer metal structure within the border region. This structure comprises a first metal layer in a first plane, a second metal layer in a lower second plane, and a third metal layer in an even lower third plane. Electrical connections are made between these layers using conductive vias. A first conductive via connects the third metal layer to a portion of the second metal layer, and a second conductive via connects the first metal layer to another portion of the second metal layer. This multi-layer approach allows for efficient and compact routing of data lines around the opening.
2. The display defined in claim 1 , wherein the plurality of gate lines are at least partially formed from a fourth metal layer that is formed in a fourth plane that is interposed between the second and third planes.
A display device includes a substrate with multiple layers of conductive and insulating materials. The display has a plurality of gate lines and data lines arranged in different planes. The gate lines are at least partially formed from a fourth metal layer positioned between a second metal layer and a third metal layer. The second metal layer may include data lines or other conductive traces, while the third metal layer may include additional conductive elements or interconnections. The fourth metal layer is interposed between these layers to optimize signal routing, reduce interference, or improve manufacturing efficiency. The display may also include thin-film transistors (TFTs) connected to the gate and data lines, forming pixel circuits for controlling light emission or modulation. The arrangement of the fourth metal layer between the second and third layers allows for more efficient use of space and improved electrical performance by reducing signal crosstalk or resistance. This layered structure is particularly useful in high-resolution displays where precise control of electrical signals is critical. The display may be used in applications such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs), organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, or other flat-panel display technologies.
3. The display defined in claim 2 , wherein the plurality of gate lines are at least partially formed from a fifth metal layer that is formed in a fifth plane that is different than the fourth plane and interposed between the second and third planes.
A display device includes a substrate with multiple layers of conductive and insulating materials. The display has a plurality of gate lines and data lines arranged in a grid pattern to control pixel elements. The gate lines are at least partially formed from a fifth metal layer, which is positioned in a fifth plane distinct from a fourth plane. This fifth plane is interposed between a second plane and a third plane within the layered structure of the display. The gate lines are electrically connected to a gate driver circuit, which generates signals to activate the gate lines in sequence. The data lines are electrically connected to a data driver circuit, which provides data signals to the pixel elements. The pixel elements are arranged in an array and are controlled by the gate and data lines to display images. The fifth metal layer for the gate lines is formed separately from other metal layers, allowing for improved electrical performance and reduced interference with other conductive layers in the display. This configuration enhances signal integrity and reduces crosstalk between the gate and data lines, improving display quality and reliability. The layered structure ensures efficient routing of signals while maintaining a compact form factor.
4. The display defined in claim 1 , further comprising: at least a first dielectric layer interposed between the first metal layer and the second metal layer; and at least a second dielectric layer interposed between the second metal layer and the third metal layer.
A display system includes multiple conductive layers separated by insulating dielectric layers to enhance performance. The system comprises a first metal layer, a second metal layer, and a third metal layer, each serving as conductive elements for electrical signals or power distribution. A first dielectric layer is positioned between the first and second metal layers to electrically insulate them while allowing controlled interaction. Similarly, a second dielectric layer is placed between the second and third metal layers to provide additional insulation and structural support. This layered configuration improves signal integrity, reduces interference, and enhances reliability in display applications. The dielectric layers may be made of materials such as silicon dioxide, silicon nitride, or organic polymers, chosen based on their dielectric properties and compatibility with the metal layers. The metal layers may consist of materials like copper, aluminum, or silver, selected for their conductivity and manufacturability. This multi-layered structure is particularly useful in high-resolution displays, touchscreens, or flexible electronics where precise signal routing and insulation are critical. The arrangement ensures efficient electrical isolation while maintaining mechanical stability and performance.
5. The display defined in claim 4 , wherein the at least first dielectric layer comprises an organic planarization layer and an inorganic passivation layer.
This display has a special insulating layer made of a flat, organic material covered by a protective, inorganic material. This layer helps make the display work better.
6. The display defined in claim 4 , wherein the at least second dielectric layer comprises an interlayer dielectric layer and a gate insulator layer.
A display device includes a substrate with a plurality of pixel circuits arranged in an array. Each pixel circuit comprises a switching transistor and a driving transistor, where the driving transistor has a gate electrode, a source electrode, and a drain electrode. The display device further includes a first dielectric layer covering the driving transistor, a second dielectric layer covering the first dielectric layer, and a third dielectric layer covering the second dielectric layer. The second dielectric layer includes an interlayer dielectric layer and a gate insulator layer. The interlayer dielectric layer electrically insulates the gate electrode of the driving transistor from other conductive layers, while the gate insulator layer provides electrical insulation between the gate electrode and the channel region of the driving transistor. This structure ensures proper electrical isolation and reliable operation of the display device. The arrangement of the dielectric layers optimizes the electrical properties and performance of the transistors, particularly in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, where precise control of current flow is critical for consistent brightness and efficiency. The layered dielectric structure helps minimize leakage current and improves the stability of the driving transistor, enhancing the overall display quality.
7. The display defined in claim 4 , further comprising: a buffer layer interposed between the third metal layer and the substrate.
A display device includes a substrate, a first metal layer, a second metal layer, and a third metal layer. The first metal layer is formed on the substrate and includes a first conductive pattern. The second metal layer is formed on the first metal layer and includes a second conductive pattern. The third metal layer is formed on the second metal layer and includes a third conductive pattern. The third metal layer is electrically connected to the first metal layer through a contact hole in the second metal layer. The display device further includes a buffer layer interposed between the third metal layer and the substrate. The buffer layer provides insulation and prevents contamination from the substrate, ensuring reliable electrical connections between the metal layers. The conductive patterns in the metal layers form signal lines, electrodes, or other electrical components necessary for display operation. The buffer layer enhances device performance by reducing defects and improving uniformity across the display. This configuration is particularly useful in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays or other advanced display technologies where multiple conductive layers are required.
8. The display defined in claim 1 , further comprising: an inorganic buffer layer formed on the substrate; and a gate insulator layer formed on the inorganic buffer layer, wherein the third metal layer is interposed between the gate insulator layer and the inorganic buffer layer.
This invention relates to display technology, specifically an improved display structure with enhanced performance and reliability. The display includes a substrate, a thin-film transistor (TFT) array, and additional layers to improve functionality. The TFT array comprises a first metal layer forming a gate electrode, a gate insulator layer, a semiconductor layer, a second metal layer forming a source electrode and a drain electrode, and a third metal layer. The third metal layer is positioned between the gate insulator layer and an inorganic buffer layer, which is formed directly on the substrate. The inorganic buffer layer acts as a barrier to prevent impurities from the substrate from diffusing into the TFT layers, while the gate insulator layer insulates the gate electrode from the semiconductor layer. The third metal layer may serve as an additional conductive or protective layer, enhancing electrical conductivity or shielding the TFT from external interference. This layered structure improves the display's durability, electrical stability, and overall performance by minimizing defects and ensuring reliable operation. The invention addresses challenges in display manufacturing, such as substrate contamination and electrical leakage, by incorporating these additional layers to create a more robust and efficient display device.
9. The display defined in claim 8 , further comprising: first and second interlayer dielectric layers; a fourth metal layer covered by the first interlayer dielectric layer; and a fifth metal layer covered by the second interlayer dielectric layer.
This invention relates to a display device with an improved multi-layer metal structure. The display addresses the challenge of integrating multiple conductive layers while maintaining electrical insulation and structural integrity. The device includes a substrate with a first metal layer and a second metal layer, where the second metal layer is electrically insulated from the first metal layer by a first insulating layer. A third metal layer is positioned above the second metal layer and is electrically insulated by a second insulating layer. The display further incorporates first and second interlayer dielectric layers, a fourth metal layer covered by the first interlayer dielectric layer, and a fifth metal layer covered by the second interlayer dielectric layer. These additional metal layers and dielectric layers enhance the display's functionality by enabling complex wiring and signal routing while preventing short circuits. The layered structure allows for the integration of multiple conductive pathways, supporting advanced display features such as touch sensing, backplane circuitry, or light-emitting elements. The interlayer dielectric layers ensure proper insulation between the metal layers, improving reliability and performance. This design is particularly useful in high-resolution or flexible displays where efficient space utilization and electrical isolation are critical.
10. The display defined in claim 9 , further comprising: an inorganic passivation layer formed on the second interlayer dielectric layer, wherein the second metal layer is interposed between the inorganic passivation layer and the second interlayer dielectric layer; a first organic planarization layer formed on the inorganic passivation layer; and a second organic planarization layer formed on the first organic planarization layer, wherein the third metal layer is interposed between the first and second organic planarization layers.
This invention relates to a display device with an improved multilayer structure for enhanced durability and performance. The display includes a substrate with a first metal layer and a first interlayer dielectric layer formed sequentially. A second metal layer is deposited on the first interlayer dielectric layer, followed by a second interlayer dielectric layer. An inorganic passivation layer is formed on the second interlayer dielectric layer, with the second metal layer positioned between the inorganic passivation layer and the second interlayer dielectric layer. This inorganic passivation layer provides protection against moisture and environmental damage. A first organic planarization layer is deposited on the inorganic passivation layer to smooth the surface, followed by a second organic planarization layer. A third metal layer is embedded between the first and second organic planarization layers, which helps in reducing stress and improving flexibility. The organic layers also enhance planarization, ensuring uniform deposition of subsequent layers. The combination of inorganic and organic layers optimizes the display's structural integrity, reliability, and manufacturing efficiency. This design is particularly useful for flexible or high-durability displays, where protection against external factors and smooth layer deposition are critical.
11. A display comprising: a substrate having an active area that includes an array of pixels and an opening within the active area, wherein the opening has first and second opposing sides and is surrounded by a border region; a plurality of gate lines coupled to the array of pixels; and a plurality of data lines coupled to the array of pixels, wherein a subset of the plurality of data lines are rerouted within the border region from the first side to the second side, wherein the subset of the plurality of data lines has portions in the border region that are formed from a first metal layer that is formed in a first plane, a second metal layer that is formed in a second plane that is lower than the first plane, and a third metal layer that is formed in a third plane that is lower than the second plane, wherein the first metal layer has a first portion formed in the border region and a second portion formed in the active area that is not electrically connected to the first portion, wherein the first portion of the first metal layer forms some of the subset of the plurality of data lines, and wherein the second portion of the first metal layer forms a positive power supply distribution line.
A display includes a substrate with an active area containing an array of pixels and an opening within the active area. The opening has two opposing sides and is surrounded by a border region. The display further includes multiple gate lines and data lines connected to the pixel array. A subset of the data lines are rerouted within the border region from one side of the opening to the other. These rerouted data lines consist of portions formed from three metal layers: a first metal layer in an upper plane, a second metal layer in a middle plane, and a third metal layer in a lower plane. The first metal layer has two disconnected sections: one in the border region forming part of the rerouted data lines and another in the active area serving as a positive power supply distribution line. This design allows for efficient routing of data lines around the opening while maintaining separate electrical functions for the metal layers. The multi-layered structure ensures proper signal integrity and power distribution within the display.
12. The display defined in claim 11 , wherein the second metal layer has a first portion formed in the border region and a second portion formed in the active area, wherein the first portion of the second metal layer forms some of the subset of the plurality of data lines, and wherein the second portion of the second metal layer forms portions of the plurality of data lines that are in the active area.
This invention relates to a display structure with an improved metal layer configuration for data lines. The display includes a substrate with an active area for displaying images and a border region surrounding the active area. The display has a plurality of data lines extending from the border region into the active area to transmit signals for pixel control. A first metal layer forms a subset of the data lines in the border region, while a second metal layer forms the remaining data lines in the border region and extends into the active area to form portions of the data lines there. The second metal layer is divided into a first portion in the border region and a second portion in the active area. The first portion of the second metal layer forms some of the subset of data lines in the border region, while the second portion forms the portions of the data lines that extend into the active area. This configuration optimizes signal transmission and reduces manufacturing complexity by strategically distributing the data line formation between two metal layers. The design ensures efficient signal routing while maintaining structural integrity in both the border and active regions of the display.
13. The display defined in claim 12 , wherein the third metal layer is not present in the active area.
A display device includes a substrate with a plurality of pixels, each pixel having an active area and a peripheral area. The display device comprises a first metal layer, a second metal layer, and a third metal layer. The first metal layer is formed on the substrate and includes a plurality of first metal lines. The second metal layer is formed on the first metal layer and includes a plurality of second metal lines. The third metal layer is formed on the second metal layer and includes a plurality of third metal lines. The first metal lines are electrically connected to the second metal lines through first vias, and the second metal lines are electrically connected to the third metal lines through second vias. The third metal layer is absent in the active area of the pixels, meaning it is only present in the peripheral area. This configuration allows for improved electrical connectivity in the peripheral area while avoiding interference or complications in the active area where light emission or detection occurs. The absence of the third metal layer in the active area may enhance optical performance or reduce manufacturing complexity. The display device may be used in applications such as liquid crystal displays, organic light-emitting diode displays, or other types of electronic displays.
14. A display comprising: a substrate having an active area that includes an array of pixels, an inactive area that surrounds the active area, and an opening within the active area, wherein the opening has first and second opposing sides; a plurality of gate lines coupled to the array of pixels; and a plurality of data lines coupled to the array of pixels, wherein a first portion of the plurality of data lines are uninterrupted by the opening and a second portion of the plurality of data lines are interrupted by the opening, wherein each data line in the second portion of the plurality of data lines has a first data line segment on the first side of the opening, a second data line segment on the second side of the opening, and a supplemental data line path that is routed through the active area and that is electrically connected to the first data line segment and the second data line segment, and wherein each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to a respective first data line segment in the inactive area.
This invention relates to display technology, specifically addressing the challenge of routing data lines in displays with openings within the active area. Such openings are often required for features like cameras or sensors, but they disrupt the standard grid of data lines, potentially causing signal integrity issues or requiring complex routing solutions. The invention provides a display with a substrate containing an active area with an array of pixels and an inactive area surrounding it. An opening is present within the active area, with opposing sides. The display includes gate lines and data lines connected to the pixel array. Some data lines remain uninterrupted by the opening, while others are split by it. For the interrupted data lines, each has a first segment on one side of the opening and a second segment on the opposite side. A supplemental data line path is routed through the active area to reconnect these segments, ensuring continuous signal transmission. The supplemental paths are electrically connected to their respective first segments in the inactive area, maintaining signal integrity and simplifying the routing process. This design avoids the need for complex detours around the opening while preserving display functionality.
15. The display defined in claim 14 , wherein the inactive area has first and second opposing sides, wherein each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to the respective first data line segment on the first side of the inactive area, and wherein each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to a respective second data line segment on the second side of the inactive area.
This invention relates to display technologies, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining signal integrity and connectivity in display panels with inactive areas that disrupt data line continuity. The invention provides a solution for routing data signals around such inactive regions, ensuring uninterrupted display functionality. The display includes a substrate with an active area for image display and an inactive area that interrupts the continuity of data lines. To bypass this interruption, supplemental data line paths are implemented. Each supplemental path connects a first data line segment on one side of the inactive area to a corresponding second data line segment on the opposite side. This routing ensures that data signals can traverse the inactive region without signal degradation or loss. The supplemental paths are strategically placed to avoid interference with other display components, such as gate lines or pixel electrodes, while maintaining electrical continuity. The design allows for flexible integration into various display types, including but not limited to liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays. The solution is particularly useful in displays with cutouts for cameras, sensors, or other integrated features, where traditional data line routing would be disrupted. By providing a reliable signal path around the inactive area, the invention ensures consistent display performance and image quality.
16. The display defined in claim 14 , wherein each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to a respective second data line segment in the inactive area.
In this display, extra wires carrying information are connected to sections of the main information-carrying wires located in the unused border area of the screen.
17. The display defined in claim 14 , wherein each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to a respective second data line segment in the active area.
A display system includes a substrate with an active area containing pixels and a peripheral area surrounding the active area. The display has a plurality of data lines, each data line comprising a first data line segment in the peripheral area and a second data line segment in the active area. The display also includes a plurality of supplemental data line paths, each electrically connected to a respective second data line segment in the active area. These supplemental paths provide redundant electrical connections to the data lines, enhancing reliability by ensuring signal integrity even if a primary connection fails. The supplemental paths may be routed through the peripheral area or other non-active regions to avoid interfering with the pixel array. This design is particularly useful in high-resolution or flexible displays where data line integrity is critical. The supplemental connections reduce the risk of display defects caused by broken or degraded data lines, improving manufacturing yield and long-term performance. The system may also include additional features such as signal conditioning circuits or redundancy logic to manage the supplemental paths.
18. The display defined in claim 14 , wherein each supplemental data line path is at least partially formed by a first metal layer and wherein the first metal layer is interposed between second and third metal layers that form a positive power supply distribution line.
A display system includes a substrate with a plurality of pixel circuits and a plurality of supplemental data line paths. Each supplemental data line path is electrically connected to a corresponding pixel circuit and is at least partially formed by a first metal layer. The first metal layer is positioned between a second metal layer and a third metal layer, which together form a positive power supply distribution line. The supplemental data line paths are configured to transmit supplemental data signals to the pixel circuits, enhancing display functionality. The arrangement of the metal layers ensures efficient power distribution while maintaining signal integrity for the supplemental data lines. This design optimizes space utilization and reduces interference between the power supply lines and the data lines, improving overall display performance. The system is particularly useful in high-resolution displays where precise signal transmission and power management are critical.
19. The display defined in claim 14 , wherein a first supplemental data line path of the supplemental data line paths has a horizontal portion that is formed from a first metal layer that is routed above an emission line that carries an emission enable control signal, wherein the first supplemental data line path has a vertical portion that is electrically connected to the horizontal portion, and wherein the vertical portion is formed from a second metal layer that is routed above a positive power supply distribution path.
This invention relates to display technologies, specifically addressing signal routing and interference issues in display panels. The invention provides a display with improved supplemental data line paths to reduce signal interference and enhance performance. The display includes multiple supplemental data line paths, each having a horizontal portion and a vertical portion. The horizontal portion is formed from a first metal layer and is routed above an emission line that carries an emission enable control signal. This routing minimizes interference between the supplemental data line and the emission line. The vertical portion is electrically connected to the horizontal portion and is formed from a second metal layer, which is routed above a positive power supply distribution path. This arrangement ensures that the vertical portion does not interfere with the power supply distribution, maintaining signal integrity. The invention optimizes signal routing in display panels, particularly in organic light-emitting diode (OLED) displays, to reduce crosstalk and improve overall display performance. The supplemental data line paths are strategically layered to avoid interference with critical control and power lines, ensuring reliable data transmission and display functionality.
20. A display having an active area with an array of pixels and an inactive area that surrounds the active area, the display comprising: a substrate that has a physical opening within the active area; a first metal layer that forms at least a portion of a plurality of data lines; a second metal layer formed over the first metal layer, wherein the second metal layer has a first portion in the active area that forms a positive power supply distribution path and a second portion in a border region around the physical opening that forms an additional portion of a first subset of the plurality of data lines; and a third metal layer formed under the first metal layer in the border region around the physical opening, wherein the third metal layer forms an additional portion of a second subset of the plurality of data lines.
This invention relates to display technology, specifically addressing the challenge of integrating a physical opening within the active area of a display while maintaining signal integrity and power distribution. The display includes an active area with an array of pixels and an inactive area surrounding it. A substrate contains a physical opening within the active area, which may be used for sensors or cameras. To accommodate this opening, the display employs a multi-layered metal structure. A first metal layer forms at least part of the data lines, which transmit signals to the pixels. A second metal layer is deposited over the first metal layer, with one portion in the active area serving as a positive power supply distribution path and another portion in a border region around the physical opening contributing to a subset of the data lines. A third metal layer, positioned beneath the first metal layer in the border region, further extends another subset of the data lines. This layered design ensures uninterrupted signal routing and power distribution despite the presence of the opening, optimizing display functionality and integration with other components. The invention enables high-performance displays with embedded features while maintaining structural and electrical integrity.
21. The display defined in claim 20 , wherein the second metal layer overlaps the third metal layer in the border region around the physical opening.
This invention relates to a display structure with a border region around a physical opening, such as a camera or sensor cutout. The problem addressed is improving the structural integrity and electrical performance of displays with such openings while maintaining visual quality. The display includes multiple metal layers, where a second metal layer overlaps a third metal layer in the border region around the physical opening. The second metal layer is electrically connected to a first metal layer, which is part of a touch sensor or other conductive structure. The third metal layer is electrically isolated from the first metal layer. The overlapping configuration ensures mechanical stability and prevents electrical interference in the border region. The display may also include a fourth metal layer that is electrically connected to the third metal layer and extends into the physical opening, providing additional structural support and electrical functionality. The overlapping metal layers and their connections improve durability and performance in displays with cutouts.
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December 1, 2020
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